How Do Air Filters Function?

Air filters operate by utilizing materials such as spun fiberglass or pleated paper encased in a cardboard frame. Installed in specific sections of HVAC systems, they act as a barrier, preventing the circulation of contaminants and other particles in the air and safeguarding sensitive components. Common substances that filters block include dust, pollen, lint, mold, hair, animal fur, dander, and bacteria.

What Is the Recommended Frequency for Changing Filters?

The recommended frequency for replacing air filters depends on the type being used in order to ensure optimal performance. Generally, manufacturers advise changing basic filters every 30 to 60 days, although specific circumstances may influence the schedule.

For homes without pets, it is advisable to change the filter every 90 days. If there is a single pet in the home, the filter should be replaced every 60 days. In households with multiple pets or individuals experiencing allergies, the filter should be changed anywhere between 20 to 45 days, or sooner. For single-occupant homes without pets or infrequently used vacation homes, the filter may typically be replaced every 6 to 12 months.

What Are the Consequences of Not Changing Your Filter?

When air filters are not regularly replaced, particles and contaminants accumulate, causing clogs in the filter. Although the filter is designed to accommodate these tiny substances, the build-up creates an almost impenetrable barrier, hindering proper airflow and leading to several issues for the entire HVAC system.

Increased Energy Costs

Clogged filters impede the easy flow of air through the system, causing the entire system to work harder to distribute heat or cool air where needed. This results in longer running times, leading to higher utility bills.

Inadequate Temperature Regulation

Due to clogged air filters, the system struggles to move air, resulting in poor distribution of warm or cool air. This can lead to certain rooms being too cold during winter or excessively hot during summer.

Health Risks

If a clogged air filter fails to trap contaminants effectively, these particles can circulate back into the air that everyone in the home breathes. This can cause immediate issues such as headaches, itchy eyes or throat, and dizziness. If the air filters are not changed and the problems persist, there can be long-term health effects.

Impacted Coils

The filters job is to protect the evaporator coil from dust and debris. If the filter is not changed regularly, or if one is not used at all, the evaporator coil becomes the filter. Over time the evaporator coil becomes so clogged, air cannot properly pass over it causing the unit to not cool properly. The evaporator coil is responsible for removing heat from the air to cool your home. If airflow is restricted from moving across the evaporator coil there is no heat to absorb and remove, and the coil will operate below a freezing temperature. This can result in a complete system failure. The coil will require to be completely removed from the air handler, cleaned, and reinstalled at a cost vastly more expensive than a years worth of filters.

System Malfunctions

There is a saying in our industry – Compressors don’t die, they are murdered. Generally when we are referring to this compressor damage we are referring to the compressor’s inability to cool itself and liquid slugging of refrigerant due to no superheat caused by a dirty filter or impacted coil. Then we are not just talking about pulling the coil, but possibly replacing the compressor, or the entire system. Protect your air conditioning system and your finances by adhering to a regular air filter replacement schedule. If you have questions about how to set up a schedule, need filters provided for you, or aren’t certain where to change your filters, give Beacon a call. We are certainly happy to help you protect your investment.

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